Offices Impact of Giving

Advancement

Donor Impact

These short stories are just a sampling of the remarkable students our donors are impacting. We thank you for your continued support.

Hello! My name is Alarik Morris and I graduate from Concordia University Ann Arbor in December with a bachelor’s in Family Life Community Services and a minor in Theological Languages. During my time at CUAA, I have been the recipient of multiple acts of kindness and support from my peers, parents, faculty, and donors. I arrived at Concordia from my hometown of Chaplin, CT, without a car, any close relatives, and without knowing a single person in Ann Arbor. Not knowing what to expect, I was able to quickly make friends, become a part of campus life, find a part-time job, and even help lead a youth ministry team called New Crew. The campus and community welcomed me with open arms and I was able to become part of a new family out here in the Midwest.

During my time at Concordia, my family underwent some major changes and the business my family owned was forced to close. They moved to Maine, away from my childhood town. This time was especially tough for me as I had to work hard to pay for my school and face these drastic changes. Ann Arbor became my home away from home, and thanks to the generosity of donors, I was able to finish my school and am accepted to Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, where I plan to enroll in the masters of divinity program to become an LCMS pastor.

I cannot thank you enough for your generosity. Your contribution has had a direct impact on my education and future plans.

Your Brother in Christ,Alarik Morris

Being a student at Concordia University Ann Arbor has changed my life. Because of the wonderful community and loving environment, I have grown physically, mentally, and most importantly spiritually. Concordia has given me the chance to develop my faith while expanding my academic responsibilities and preparing me for a successful future. My aspirations to become a physical therapist will continue after graduation in May, as I am currently applying to several Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.

With all of my roles in campus activities—such as being a dual athlete (women’s soccer and women’s lacrosse), Campus Ministry coordinator, Worship Arts leader, Student Athlete Leadership Team representative, and member of the women’s chorale—I have experienced so much of Concordia and have been extremely blessed to be a student here. Thanks to donors like you, I have been able to see so many wonderful changes in the four years of my undergraduate studies. From the new athletic facilities and beautifully renovated music hall, to the North Building, and so much more, Concordia has blossomed. I have graciously been able to utilize the facilities and new advancements daily, and have enjoyed every minute.

Thank you for being so faithful and for offering not only me, but current and future students a better chance for success at a higher education university where excellence and growth are invigorated. I am proud to be a Cardinal, and because of donors such as you, I can start my future on the right foot.

Again, thank you for your generosity. Blessings to you and your family this holiday season!

With a sincere heart,Grace Stadler

Every little girl has little dreams that one day, with faith and God’s grace, they hope will become a reality. Well, I have had many dreams growing up and I still have numerous ambitions. Some are elaborate and far-fetched, while others are concise and average. One was leaving home and starting on my own. Another was being a collegiate athlete.

These dreams seemed nearly impossible at one time based on my background. However, with the beautiful hearts that donors like you possess to serve this current and potential Concordia community, you have become a giant part of fulfilling significant dreams of mine. The efforts you provide to support students like me grant us the opportunity to construct our own individual futures. We don’t just get to aspire to be something extraordinary, but we get to achieve something extraordinary with your help.

There are not enough words to describe how grateful I am for your generous contributions to my education. So simply, thank you! I am humbled to be a part of this Concordia family as it has impacted so many aspects of my life. And I am appreciative that you are a part of this Concordia family as you have impacted so many students’ lives.

Sincerely,Jessica Russ

Hello. My name is Timothy Felska, and I served six years in the United States Navy as a submarine mechanic. Currently, I work as a paramedic in the Detroit metropolitan area, and have done so for about 13 years. During this time, I have also served with Military Avenue Church, a ministry serving the people of Southwest Detroit, as well as Covenant Community Care Clinic, which is dedicated to providing medical care for the impoverished and underinsured.

I am telling you of these things because you are directly helping me—a service-oriented disciple of Jesus Christ—to receive training at Concordia University that will enable me to help these people in a higher capacity. You are very generously helping me to become a registered nurse. As an RN, I will be able to provide much more care than I can now as a paramedic. Serving Christ has taken me to many wonderful places, and has allowed me to meet many of my brothers and sisters overseas. I eagerly look forward to seeing what deeds God has for me in the future. In the meantime, I enjoy serving with my classmates. Without your help, I would not be getting anywhere. I cannot thank you enough. Your help doesn’t simply remove some of the financial obstacle. It inspires me to keep moving forward. You remind me that somebody cares.

Sincerely in Christ,Timothy William Felska

When a player, extends his hand to help another player stand, it is termed, “sportsmanship.” When a woman proceeds to walk up or down a flight of stairs and a man extends his hand to assist, it is phrased, “being a gentleman.” As a donor to Concordia, you embody every aspect of kindness behind both acts. That person who extends a helping hand aids in shaping communities, growing economies, and taking the act of kindness to new heights. That is the person I aspire to resemble. That person is you.

In 2018, I will graduate and begin my exploration into the professional world. As I embark on this journey, my memories will include people who have helped me get to graduation. It is individuals like you that I will hold deep in my thoughts. You and your contributions to Concordia help people like me discover happiness, independence, and management of priorities. Your commitment to our university is incredible, and because of that commitment, students like myself can continue to develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. I am grateful for your generous donation and the helping hand offered.